Facebook for Android Gets Chat and Push Notifications

Facebook for Android has been updated to version 1.5 and it adds Chat and push notifications.

The new Chat functionality eliminates the need to use third-party apps, that used to be the only way you could chat on the go. Chat for Android runs properly in the background, which the announcement says allows users to “receive chat messages while using other applications”.

The push notifications will help users stay aware of activity on their Facebook accounts in real time. Push notifications can be set to alert you anytime you get messages, comments, and wall posts. You can also have your phone flash, ring, or vibrate any time you get a friend request or an event invite.

Now, Facebook for Android only lacks a few minor features available on the iPhone, namely photo tagging, Facebook Deals, and advanced Places functionality including photo check-ins and the ability to add tags of friends to an existing check-in.